World AIDS Day, which falls on December 1 every year, was first observed in 1988 to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS while paying tribute to the victims. AIDS is the last stage of HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus, where the body’s immune system is severely impaired.
The WHO emphasises health as an essential right of human right by the need to be treated equally without stigma or discrimination that obstructs an AIDS-free world. Proper education on preventing AIDS would also be pivotal in its achievement. On World AIDS Day, human rights will call for treatment without discrimination.
History
World AIDS Day was first observed in 1988 after a recommendation by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN). The day was established to recognize the worldwide impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, educate people, and advocate for those infected with HIV. The date was selected to allow for maximum participation around the world, and the red ribbon became a symbol of solidarity for those affected by the disease.
What is the significance of World AIDS Day?
There are significant social and health purposes of World AIDS Day awareness towards HIV/AIDS, its prevention, and equal rights advocacy while confronting stigma and supporting an AIDS-free future.
Make people aware people
It offers an opportunity to educate people concerning the matter of HIV, including prevention, and how it may be treated. The day serves to dispute the stigma attached to such a disease.
A day to remember lost souls
This day is to remember those who have died because of AIDS-related illnesses, since the disease still kills people around the world, despite advances in treatment.
Promotion of health campaigns
Governments, organizations, and activists use this day to publicize the gains made in combating the epidemic and stress the importance of prevention, testing, and access to treatment. We need to raise the awareness of stigmatization of PLWA (People living with AIDS)
“It is shocking that, 41 years into the HIV and AIDS epidemic, myths and misconceptions are still so widespread. A lack of basic facts about how HIV is transmitted is fuelling stigma and discrimination,” said Chidi King, Chief of the ILO’s Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Branch (GEDI). “This survey is a wake-up call to reinvigorate HIV prevention and education programmes. The world of work has a key role to play. Stigma and discrimination in the workplace marginalize people, push people living with HIV into poverty, and undermine the goal of decent work.”
This statement just gives accurate insight into the scary truth of the stigma PLWA face
This day keeps a reminder to all humans regardless of age and status to remember the importance of AIDS awareness and thee help we can render to curbing STIGMATIZATION in campuses and communities at large.
As NURSES our mission is to promote wellness both mentally and emotionally to PLWA and health education is a major focus.
Happy world AIDS DAY!
ALABI AYOMIKUN